The cabinet has condemned the violent protests in North West, and called on community leaders in the region to show stronger leadership and encourage their followers to demonstrate peacefully.

The cabinet has condemned the violent protests in North West, and called on community leaders in the region to show stronger leadership and encourage their followers to demonstrate peacefully.

This follows last week's violent protests in Khutsong, near Carletonville, against the area being incorporated into North West.

Government spokesman Themba Maseko said yesterday that the cabinet - which held its fortnightly meeting in Cape Town the day before - was concerned about the violent nature of the protests. This has included hurling stones and petrol bombs at police and passing vehicles.

Maseko said that law enforcement agencies in the Khutsong area "must and will take all the necessary steps to ensure that all those who encourage or participate in unlawful and violent action are held accountable for their actions".

He said the cabinet called upon community leaders "to show strong leadership that encourages our communities to act within the law and promotes understanding of the parameters of acceptable protest in a democratic state". - Sapa